Jose Peseiro explains absence from coaching, rejects offers despite interest

By Saheed Afolabi

Former Nigeria head coach Jose Peseiro has opened up about his decision to remain absent from coaching roles, despite receiving numerous offers from various clubs, including those from his homeland, Portugal.

Peseiro, who led the Super Eagles to a second-place finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire, made it clear that he has no immediate plans to return to a coaching position, even though several opportunities have come his way.

In an interview with Ojogo, Peseiro shared that he has been approached by several clubs, including those from Portugal, but is not inclined to take on any managerial roles at the moment.

“I honestly don’t see myself coaching another team in Portugal, even though there are projects that I’m excited about,” Peseiro stated.

“So far, it hasn’t happened. I’ve had offers to return to Portugal, once again, but I haven’t. It’s not because I don’t like the country or our football.”

Peseiro’s tenure with the Super Eagles was marked by several high points, including a dramatic journey to the AFCON final in January 2023.

Under his guidance, Nigeria reached the final but fell short, losing 2-1 to the host nation Ivory Coast at the Alhassan Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan.

Despite the defeat, Peseiro’s time with the national team was seen as largely positive, and his tactical approach was praised by both fans and critics.

Though Peseiro remains a respected figure in the football world, his decision to step away from the dugout comes as a surprise to many, particularly given the high-profile nature of the offers he has received.

He declined to delve into the specifics of these offers but affirmed that he is not currently interested in returning to coaching, either in Portugal or elsewhere.

For now, Peseiro appears focused on other ventures, although he has left the door open for future opportunities.

While his absence from the game has left fans wondering about his next move, the Portuguese coach seems content to take a break from football’s intense pressures and expectations.

Despite the offers that have come his way, Peseiro’s statement suggests that he is not ready to return to the sidelines anytime soon, leaving the future uncertain for the man who once guided Nigeria to an AFCON final.